New laws

[Wakka Wakka]

I absolutely agree.

I do believe the proposed new laws are bad laws and they will do nothing to help those who need it while also making life more difficult and dangerous for those escorts operating independently and of their own volition.

I also believe that the laws will come into force, just look at the numbers that voted for them in NI. Simply put those in favour of the laws have managed to garner the support of the politicians who are all desperate to be seen to do something. There is no opposing point of view. Yes, some sex workers did come forward, give evidence, and openly try to tell their stories, but it is blatantly clear that no one wants to listen to them. I fully expect the same to happen here, after all, what politician wants to run the risk of supporting sex workers, the first question that will be asked is 'why does he want to help them, what's he hiding?'

However.

When the laws come into place I do expect some early arrests, probably based around street walkers, just so the Gardai can show everyone they're on the case. But remember, this is a force that has gone through huge cuts in recent years, both financially and in terms of manpower. I expect that after the initial flush of activity things will quieten down as thin resources have to be spread to try to cover everything else.

When both clients and escorts operate with an adequate degree of discretion, privacy and common sense I fully expect their lives to continue almost exactly as it did before.

Also, and here's a thing, I expect those working at the higher end of the market to carry on as if nothing has happened, not simply because they usually operate with greater discretion, but the powers that be will only want to see a few grubby looking punters paraded before the courts, the last thing they'll want will be their friends in business, politics and senior figures in all walks of life put at risk, so the higher end of the market, and their clients, will sail on without a care